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Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Gruyere Pasta

A cozy gourmet pasta featuring caramelized leeks, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy Gruyere sauce, perfect for indulgent weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, French
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta fettuccine, tagliatelle, or choice
Vegetables
  • 2 large leeks cleaned and sliced
  • 8 oz mushrooms cremini or button, sliced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves plus extra for garnish
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp nutmeg optional
Sauce & Cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese grated
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Grater
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
  2. Caramelize leeks in butter and olive oil over medium heat until soft and golden.
  3. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown; combine with leeks.
  4. Stir in garlic and thyme; cook until fragrant.
  5. Pour in cream and simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken.
  6. Add Gruyere and Parmesan gradually, stirring until smooth.
  7. Toss cooked pasta with sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with thyme and extra Gruyere.

Notes

Optional mix-ins: peas, roasted red peppers, or caramelized shallots. Best served immediately.